what kind of questions should you ask a real estate attorney

^{10 Questions You Should Ask a Potential Real Estate Lawyer}

1. How long have you practiced real estate law? This is an important question to ask because the more experience an attorney has in this specialty, the better. ...
2. What are your specialties within real estate law? Some lawyers focus their practice on certain aspects of real estate law. ...
3. How long have you been practicing in this state? Real estate laws may vary from one state to another. ...
4. Is their law degree from an accredited law school? This is an important question to ask, but you may want to do a little research on your own. ...
Does the attorney have skilled staff? Often, the staff of paralegals working for a real estate attorney does a lot of the legwork involved. ...
How much does the attorney cost for services rendered? It’s never a bad idea to compare the prices that a few of the certified and reputable real estate attorneys ...
Has the attorney handled cases that are similar to yours? This question is especially important if you’re dealing with a unique real estate case. ...
Will the attorney give you a cost estimate? As a consumer, you should be apprised of the average range of costs that you will incur by retaining a real ...
Will the attorney offer you a detailed action plan? You have the right to know how your attorney plans to handle your case. ...
Do I need an attorney for this type of transaction?

Full Answer

What questions should I ask a realtor?

Make sure you ask these questions before making the final hiring decision. 1. How Much Experience Do You Have? The longer the attorney has been working, the more scenarios and variety of cases they have handled. You want a legal representative who can deal with any situation. Are you going through the simple processes of buying or selling?

What to expect from a real estate lawyer?

Jun 04, 2019 · However, there are still some general questions you should ask a real estate attorney. How long have you practiced law? Depending on the complexity of your case, you may be looking for very specific characteristics in a lawyer – and one of those characteristics may be having experience with a case like yours in the past.

How to find the best real estate lawyer?

Jun 25, 2018 · You may also want to ask if they specialize in any particular area of real estate law. It’s also a good idea to find out where they earned their law degree and whether or not it’s an accredited school. If they attended law school in a different state, you should also ask how many years of experience they have practicing law in your state.

What are good questions to ask an attorney?

Your real estate agent may suggest one as well. Once you have a few names (however you got them), the real work begins. You will want to conduct a phone interview and ask as many questions as possible. Describe your particular situation and ask if they have ever worked on a case like yours before. Other questions to ask include: Are they primarily a real estate lawyer? …

What does a real estate attorney do?

Once real estate agents settle the selling price and terms and contracts are signed, the real estate attorney takes over. The attorney reviews the contracts, negotiates repairs, makes adjustments in accordance with the terms of the deal, and may attend the closing. Some states require that an attorney be present at closing, ...

How much does a real estate lawyer charge?

Most real estate lawyers charge by the hour, while some professionals charge a flat fee. Hourly fees range from $150 to $350; flat fees are often between $500 to $1,500.

Why do you need an attorney for a commercial property?

Buying commercial properties, those with structural issues and buildings located in hazardous areas warrant the services of an attorney. Sellers may hire an attorney if the property they are selling is in a state of distress. Another reason to involve an attorney is when an individual is trying to sell a property with an uncooperative partner.

Why is it important to ask a lawyer about their tactics?

It is important to come away with a detailed plan of action rather than a vague guarantee of success.

What is title search?

Title searches are another area of expertise. Our real estate lawyers will protect you from liens, back taxes and other issues. We also assist landlords with the drafting of leases and review lease agreements for tenants. Various housing court matters are expertly handled by our team.

What is real estate law?

Real estate law itself is a specialization. Law school students normally begin with taking elective courses and continue with real estate certification after law school. Ideally, the real estate lawyer will have earned a law degree from an accredited school. The professional might have attended law school in another state.

What are some examples of cases our legal firm handles?

Examples of types of cases our legal firm handles include buying and selling residential homes . We provide legal representation for those interested in buying or selling a business or commercial property, facilitating the transfer of ownership, assisting with negotiations, and attending the closing.

What to ask a real estate lawyer about the number of clients served?

Asking a potential real estate lawyer about the number of clients served can unveil a few important details. First, it may show that the lawyer has the experience and expertise that clients demand. It could also unveil that the lawyer is too busy and may not give you the support you need for a successful case outcome.

Can a real estate attorney handle a large caseload?

However, this often isn’t the case, especially for large firms that handle a large caseload. A lawyer may hire paralegals to help create documents like contracts. The lawyer might also allow junior attorneys to help with the case.

What is the role of a real estate lawyer?

One of the key roles a real estate lawyer plays is that of document drafter. Real estate attorneys prepare deeds for conveyance transactions, leases and rental agreements, purchase contracts and financing agreements.

What happens if a real estate transaction does not work out?

Should the real estate transactions not work out, pending litigation is usually the end result. Real estate lawyers represent their clients in real estate litigation. This includes drafting legal pleadings to file with the judge, participating in hearings and trial with the judge, and filing appeals if necessary.

Why do real estate lawyers act as guardians?

This then allows the real estate lawyer to act as guardian for their clients to make sure the clients don’t end up in any legal pitfalls.

Is it important to hire a real estate attorney?

Finding a real estate attorney or hiring a real estate attorney is very important. Just because a lawyer says they are a real estate attorney, does not mean that they are competent enough to accomplish what you need. You’ll need a real estate lawyer familiar with compound interest, annual interest rate, home sales, ...

Can a high end real estate title be a lien?

In addition, high-end real estate may be subject to several liens, encumbrances, or judgments . A proper title search and an experienced real estate lawyer is the best way to ensure that these issues do not pass to the buyer on settlement day.

Is a real estate attorney familiar with the New York laws?

Not only is a real estate attorney familiar with the steps involved in the process, but will be familiar with the New York laws involved and can advise you while steering you in the right direction to best accomplish your goals.

How important is it to know how many years a real estate attorney has practiced law?

It is important to note that in contrast to finding a traditional attorney, the number of years a given real estate attorney has practiced law is less important when compared to their specialty. As you identify whether they have worked with real estate investors in the past, you may also want to inquire what percentage of their practice involves working with real estate. This can help you identify an attorney with both experience and a strong understanding of the things you need.

How can a good real estate attorney help you?

Whether you are investing out of state or simply renting out the property next door, finding a good attorney can help protect you and your business through all aspects of a real estate transaction. The right real estate attorney will be skilled in the laws and regulations of your area and will be available to oversee the legal details of your real estate transactions. No matter what side of a transaction you are on, whether it be buyer or seller, a real estate attorney can assist you in several ways. That’s why it’s important to find the best person for the job. Keep reading to learn about the questions to ask real estate attorney professionals before working together.

How to deal with real estate investment?

Real estate investment deals are often much different than traditional purchases. Between short sales and foreclosures, many investment deals can be time consuming and difficult to deal with. You need an attorney that knows how investors work in real estate. This could be changing the contract to offer protection or working with lenders to push the deal forward. As a bonus, your attorney may be able to put you in contact with fellow investors in your area. You can never have enough contacts. By having a mutual attorney, you can hit the ground running. In time, an attorney who works with investors can be a good source for deals directly. If they have a large investment portfolio, you should feel confident that they know the process and what to expect. Investment deals can be a handful. A good attorney can make it as smooth as possible for you.

Why do you pay an attorney up front?

Think of it this way: you are paying money up front to save yourself from future legal problems and, consequently financial problems down the road. That being said, there are several variables when it comes to real estate attorney fees that you will want to note. For example, be sure to determine whether you are paying a fixed rate or a time-based fee. Additionally, specify which services will be included in your given contract. Make note of which services your business warrants, and hire an attorney accordingly.

Why do you need a real estate attorney?

Investors seeking to get started in the world of commercial real estate will find an attorney especially helpful when it comes to acquiring new properties or managing existing ones . Another reason a real estate attorney can be of value to your team is during the rehab process.

What does a closing attorney do?

During the selling and closing process of a home, a real estate closing attorney can help handle the title check and more for the property in question. They are also equipped to handle any unexpected events during the closing process .

Do real estate investors need an attorney?

In comparison, homeowners and real estate investors often rely on real estate attorneys for various reasons. Homeowners typically lean on attorneys during the home buying or selling process; however, real estate investors may employ a real estate attorney considerably more frequently. Those working with investment properties or property management may find a real estate attorney particularly useful in situations throughout their careers.

What to ask a lawyer about a case?

Ask about possible obstacles in your case and how they can overcome them. A great attorney will also know the other party's strategy and their plan of action.

What can a real estate lawyer do?

Are you going through the simple processes of buying or selling? Do you disagree with something in the contract? A real estate lawyer can help guide you through the process.

What is the future of real estate?

The future of your real estate transaction depends on the questions you ask. A real estate attorney who answers confidently can make your life easier. The right real estate legal professional can answer your questions, review documents, and argue cases for you in court. Don't wait any longer. Get the right attorney who will fight ...

How long does it take to get a return call from a lawyer?

Ask the lawyer how easily accessible they are. You should be able to get a return call or email within a business day. Most reputable law firms will have an emergency line in case something needs immediate attention.

How to get a good picture of a lawyer?

Ask for a list of recent references to get a better picture of the lawyer. A professional reference can tell you how they operated under pressure and their weaknesses.

Why do law firms pitch their services?

Make them pitch their services to you in hopes that they bring their best abilities to court.

What is a competent lawyer?

A competent lawyer will walk you through the steps of their process. They will ensure you understand the reasons behind every move.

How long have you practiced law?

Depending on the complexity of your case, you may be looking for very specific characteristics in a lawyer – and one of those characteristics may be having experience with a case like yours in the past. So when you find out how long they’ve been practicing law, they may even explain other cases they’ve worked on that are similar to yours.

How will you go about my case?

You should know how your potential future attorney is going to handle your case, and an attorney shouldn’t be shocked that you asked this question – it’s common to ask this no matter what type of law you’re dealing with. If a lawyer has experience with a case like yours, they may even outline how they went about it in the past.

What will my fee be?

Before you make your final decision on any type of attorney, you should always know the following:

What are the scenarios where you may wish to employ a real estate lawyer?

If you are selling property, the below are all scenarios where you may wish to employ a real estate lawyer: Selling a property you inherited. Selling a property during a divorce or separation. Selling a property with a lien. Short-selling a home. Selling a home with multiple owners.

Why do you need a real estate attorney?

For buyers, the following are all great reasons to seek legal counsel: Out of state/town home purchases. Purchasing a short sale. Purchasing a bank-owned property or foreclosure. Purchasing commercial real estate. Purchasing an estate.

How to sell a house with a lien?

If you are selling property, the below are all scenarios where you may wish to employ a real estate lawyer: 1 Selling a property you inherited 2 Selling a property during a divorce or separation 3 Selling a property with a lien 4 Short-selling a home 5 Selling a home with multiple owners 6 Selling a home with known problems (structural problems, mold and so forth)

What to do if you don't trust an attorney?

If you have any red flags or do not trust the attorney 100 percent, it is time to move on and give another lawyer a call.

Is it the same as hiring a real estate attorney?

Hiring a real estate attorney is, in some ways, the same as hiring any other service. You always want to perform your due diligence: research the attorney online, seek out reviews and see what other people have to say, and then pick up the phone.

What happens if you don't ask a real estate agent?

If you don’t ask real estate agents the right questions before buying your house, you could be stuck in another “wig” situation. Making a mistake with the home you choose could have devastating effects that will last much longer than a bad haircut. When you’re buying your first home, your first relationship with a real estate agent can mean ...

What is a real estate agent?

However, real estate agents are essential advocates and guides as you navigate the homebuying process . They will be experts in your target neighborhood, help you find the perfect home, and provide information you can’t find anywhere else thanks to resources, like the MLS database, they have behind the scenes. They will also walk you through the transaction process, supporting you as you complete your offer and making sure your contract includes all the right clauses to protect you. Without an agent, you may be faced with doing all the paperwork and legwork yourself, which could cost you money or even your perfect home down the line.

What percentage of buyers buy through an agent?

In 2019, 89% of buyers purchased their homes through an agent, so choosing the right agent is a critical step to ensuring your homebuying success. To make sure you’re working with the best agent for your needs, here are 26 questions every buyer should ask real estate agents for both vetting before and while working together.

Why do you need an agent when buying a home?

An agent can make sure you find your perfect home and are protected every step of the way. But it’s essential you feel comfortable and fully trust them with this important investment. These questions will help you do that and make your homebuying process easy and successful.

What does it mean when a realtor has a balanced roster?

If they have a balanced roster of clients, it could mean they are very knowledgeable about both sides of the process.

What happens when you enter an agent-buyer relationship?

If you enter an agent-buyer relationship with the understanding that the agent will be handling you personally, it can be alarming to be handed off to an assistant. Be clear about who you will primarily be dealing with, what your agent will handle personally, and what gets delegated to their support staff.

How many homes do real estate agents close in a year?

Real estate agents close an average of 10 homes per year, according to NAR. If your agent is batting way below that, it could be a red flag.